Mazda is re-entering the mid-size EV market in Australia with the 6e, a five-door liftback developed in partnership with Changan Mazda in China. This launch fills a gap left by the discontinued MX-30 electric SUV and the traditional Mazda 6 sedan. Pre-orders are open now, with deliveries scheduled to begin in July 2026.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The Mazda 6e aims to undercut key competitors. The base GT trim starts at $4910 less than the Tesla Model 3 Premium RWD, while the top-spec Atenza is only marginally more expensive than the previous turbocharged Mazda 6 G35 Atenza. As an incentive, the first 300 pre-order customers for the GT will receive a complimentary upgrade to the Atenza model.
Key Features and Technology
The 6e introduces several firsts for Mazda in Australia, including a digital Bluetooth key and a companion app enabling remote climate control, window adjustments, and door locking.
Specifications at a glance:
- Drivetrains: Details not fully disclosed yet.
- Dimensions: Slightly larger than the old Mazda 6 sedan.
- Warranty: Standard five-year, unlimited-kilometre coverage. Battery warranty details are pending.
Safety Standards
Although yet to be independently tested by ANCAP, the Mazda 6e received a five-star rating from Euro NCAP in 2025, with high scores in adult (93%) and child occupant protection (93%). Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking with junction assist, pedestrian/cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, driver monitoring, and surround-view cameras.
Trim Levels and Interior Options
The Mazda 6e comes in two trims: GT and Atenza.
GT standard equipment includes:
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- Keyless entry/start
- Bluetooth key functionality
- Augmented reality head-up display
- 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
- 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Tri-zone climate control
- Heated/ventilated front seats
- 64-colour ambient lighting
- 14-speaker Sony sound system
The Atenza trim upgrades to tan leather/suede seats, matching dashboard trim, and a two-tone black/leather steering wheel.
Exterior and Interior Color Choices
Available exterior colours include Soul Red Crystal metallic, Machine Grey metallic, Polymetal Grey metallic, Aero Grey metallic, Crystal White pearl, Deep Crystal Blue mica, and Jet Black mica. The GT offers a Warm Beige interior option for an additional $1000, while the Atenza comes standard with a tan-and-black interior.
The reintroduction of the Mazda 6 as an all-electric liftback represents a strategic shift for the brand. By leveraging the cost-effectiveness of its Chinese joint venture and competitive pricing, Mazda aims to attract buyers seeking an alternative to Tesla and other established EV players in the Australian market.
